Daily Escape

Photo by Antony Giblin/ Lonely Planet Images/ Getty Images

Borobudur Temple

Java, Indonesia

This ninth-century Mahayana Buddhist temple has been astounding visitors for centuries. Built in layers, the temple represents the many domains of Buddhist religious theory. The hidden, intricately designed foundation was discovered in 1885, revealing detailed reliefs depicting kamadhatu (the realm of desires). The site is especially evocative at sunrise. Join torch-bearing guides to ascend the ancient temple steps in the early morning, and then watch as dawn floods the area with magnificent light.